STORY HIGHLIGHTS

The tax amount will be used to 'further increase the airport’s capacity and invest in new infrastructure'

Qatar international airport will now charge 'exit tax' from the passengers while the country adjusts to falling oil prices.

The 35-riyal ($10) levy will be added to the airline prices for tickets issued on and after August 30 and for travel starting on and after December 1.

"The charge is in line with International Civil Aviation Organisation principles to support the development of world leading airports such as HIA," Hamad International Airport (HIA) said in a statement.

To gain a competitive advantage for business and become regional hubs, Gulf states have avoided levying the airport fees so far, which is common elsewhere in the world.

The gas-rich country has predicted a deficit of more than $12 billion for the year 2016, which is its first in last 15 years.

Officials, however, predict a further deficit in 2017 and 2018 as low natural gas and oil prices weigh on its revenues. Qatar will also be hosting the soccer World Cup in 2022.

The tax amount will be used to "further increase the airport’s capacity and invest in new infrastructure", the statement said.

Various airports in the United Arab Emirates have announced similar taxes this year.

(WION with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

The tax amount will be used to 'further increase the airport’s capacity and invest in new infrastructure'